West Nile virus found in Licking County

 LICKING COUNTY, OHIO – The Licking County Health Department has identified the first West Nile Virus infected mosquitoes of 2019 in a trap set in the Village of Alexandria.

The trap was set on July 31, 2019, and LCHD became aware of the results from the Ohio Department of Health Laboratory late Tuesday, August 6, 2019.

The Village of Alexandria was sprayed Tuesday evening for mosquitoes as a part of LCHD’s mosquito control program.

“It’s not a surprise that we have identified West Nile Virus in the county, but it’s important for residents to take some simple safety precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones,” said Chad Brown, LCHD Director of Environmental Health. “Be sure to eliminate standing water on your property to reduce breeding sites, apply EPA-approved insect repellent, wear pants and sleeves when appropriate, and avoid outdoor activity after dark when mosquitoes are most active.”

See an updated list of West Nile Virus-positive mosquito traps by location here.